72903, Fort Smith, Arkansas COPD Score

The COPD Score in 72903, Fort Smith, Arkansas is 56 out of 100 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

87.69 percent of the population in 72903 drive to work alone. 0.07 percent of the people take some form of public transportation like the bus or the train to work. Approximately 90.03 percent of the residents get to work in less than 30 minutes. 3.51 percent of the residents in 72903 get to work in more than 60 minutes. The average household size is approximately 2.15 members with about 1.98 cars available per household.

An estimate of 88.52 percent of the residents in 72903 has some form of health insurance. 34.59 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 65.94 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase.

A resident in 72903 would have to travel an average of 0.86 miles to reach the nearest hospital with an emergency room, Mercy Hospital Fort Smith . In a 20-mile radius, there are 0 healthcare providers accessible to residents in 72903, Fort Smith, Arkansas.

As of , an estimate of 25,855 residents live in 72903 with a median age of 39.0 years. 19.96 percent of the population is under the age of 18, and 17.84 percent of the population is at least 65 years of age. 38.89 percent of the residents in 72903 is currently married, and 20.92 percent of the population has never been married.

The monthly median household income in 72903 is $5,566.92. The monthly median housing costs for residents in 72903 is approximately $797. The median household spends about 14.32 percent of their income on housing.

Fort Smith, Arkansas, ZIP Code 72903, is a vibrant city with a rich history and a burgeoning healthcare landscape. As potential residents consider settling in this area, it's essential to understand the healthcare amenities available, especially for those with chronic conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

Historical Background

Fort Smith has a storied past, originally established as a frontier military post in 1817. The city played a pivotal role in the westward expansion of the United States and is steeped in history, with landmarks like the Fort Smith National Historic Site and the Belle Grove Historic District.

Healthcare Amenities

Residents of 72903 have access to a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, clinics, and specialist practices. One notable institution is Mercy Hospital Fort Smith, which provides comprehensive medical services to the community. The hospital offers advanced care for conditions like COPD and has a team of experienced healthcare professionals dedicated to respiratory health.

In addition to Mercy Hospital, there are several primary care clinics and specialty practices in the area that cater to individuals with COPD. These facilities offer services such as pulmonary function testing, respiratory therapy, and disease management programs to support patients in managing their condition.

Accessibility of Healthcare

For individuals with COPD, access to healthcare is crucial for maintaining their quality of life. The proximity of healthcare facilities and transportation options can significantly impact their ability to seek timely medical attention. In 72903, residents have access to reliable transportation options such as personal vehicles, public buses operated by Fort Smith Transit, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

COPD: A Medical Perspective

COPD is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It encompasses conditions such as emphysema and chronic bronchitis and is often characterized by symptoms like shortness of breath, coughing, and wheezing. Managing COPD requires ongoing medical care, including regular check-ups with healthcare providers to monitor lung function and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Financial Costs of Missed Appointments

Missing scheduled appointments with healthcare providers can have significant financial implications for individuals with COPD. Apart from the potential worsening of their condition due to lack of timely medical intervention, missed appointments can lead to increased healthcare costs in the long run. This may include emergency room visits or hospitalizations that could have been prevented through proactive management of the disease.

Local Health Initiatives

In Fort Smith, various local health initiatives aim to support individuals with chronic conditions like COPD. Community-based programs focusing on smoking cessation, pulmonary rehabilitation, and education on air quality management contribute to improving respiratory health outcomes for residents. These initiatives often collaborate with healthcare providers to offer holistic support for individuals managing COPD.

Accessing Healthcare for COPD Patients

Locals with COPD typically access healthcare through a combination of primary care physicians, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other allied health professionals. Primary care physicians play an essential role in coordinating overall care for individuals with COPD, while pulmonologists specialize in diagnosing and treating respiratory conditions. Respiratory therapists provide valuable support through breathing exercises and techniques to optimize lung function.

Real Estate Considerations

For those considering relocating to 72903, assessing the proximity of healthcare amenities is crucial—especially for individuals with specific healthcare needs like COPD. Accessible healthcare facilities can influence decisions related to residential real estate choices within the ZIP Code. Proximity to hospitals or clinics may be a priority for those seeking homes in the area.

In conclusion, Fort Smith's ZIP Code 72903 offers a diverse range of healthcare amenities that cater to residents' varying medical needs. Individuals with COPD can access specialized care and support through local health initiatives while benefiting from reliable transportation options for reaching medical appointments. Understanding these factors is essential when considering relocation to this dynamic city with a rich history and robust healthcare landscape that serves its community well.